Following in the footsteps of neighbouring Tamil Nadu, Kerala too may soon make rainwater harvesting compulsory in all new buildings in the state, said Water Resources Minister P J Joseph while speaking at the World Water Day observance here on Friday.

 “Taking Tamil Nadu’s example, the State Government has proposed that all new buildings and houses over 500 square feet roof area must have provisions for rainwater harvesting,” said the Minister, adding that an average of 3 lakh litres of rainwater can be harvested from a rooftop measuring 1,000 square feet.

 He said that measures such as these were absolutely necessary for the state which was on the grip of a drought.   “Rainwater harvesting is also being promoted in hilly areas where it is difficult to pump water,” he said.  Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, who inaugurated the event, also promised any amount of money required for water conservation measures in the state.

 “For the conservation of a precious resource such as water, money is no hindrance,” declared Chandy, adding that three measures were most important - preservation of rivers, conservation and revival of ponds and such water bodies, and harvesting of rainwater.

 He stated that the impending drought this year would be an ‘eye-opener’ for rain-dependent Kerala since it would cripple not only agriculture but also energy, as the hydroelectric power formed the lion’s share in the state. 

“In this context, long-term planning for water conservation policies must begin this summer itself,” he said.

 A documentary on water conservation by the Communication and Capacity Development Unit (CCDU) of Water Resources Department and a report by the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change on ‘Kerala’s Watersheds’ were also released on the occasion.